The green hills of this regional province offer a wonderful journey into ancient history. Many travelers love to explore the areas far beyond the main provincial capital. Leaving the urban center reveals a peaceful landscape shaped by the large Mekong River. This historic border area combines ancient ruins and local traditions inside quiet daily life.
Navigating this large province comfortably requires a private air-conditioned vehicle or a dedicated driver. Fortunately, the primary roads connecting the main districts are wide and generally well-maintained.
However, heavy seasonal rainfall can occasionally impact the smaller routes near the riverbanks. Planning your day carefully ensures that travel times remain short during your local journey. This smart setup allows plenty of time for long afternoon rests near the water.
In this guide
The mekong cliff route – historic nature and geology
The northern frontier of the province offers an impressive landscape shaped by millions of years of natural erosion along the Mekong River. This border region reveals high sandstone cliffs, deep canyons and unique geological formations that offer a quiet connection to simple nature. Travelling along this rural route rewards visitors with scenic views across the riverbanks into the quiet, forested hills of neighbouring Laos, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed and unhurried day trip.
Sam Phan Bok – sandstone canyon and rock pools
Sam Phan Bok is a natural wonder often described as the grand canyon of Thailand. Featuring a large sandstone reef in the Mekong River, this historic landscape is best visited from November to April. During this period the retreating river exposes the clear stone carvings and pools that reflect its raw beauty.
Visiting this natural monument requires careful preparation because the entire area is completely exposed to the elements without any natural shade. While local pick-up trucks are available to transport visitors from the parking area down into the dry riverbed, the terrain itself consists entirely of uneven sandstone surfaces and steep ledges. For safety, travellers with limited mobility should admire the views from the shaded pavilions near the main entrance.
We recommend arriving during the early morning hours to avoid the midday heat and bright sun reflections. Hiring a local guide at the entrance is advised, they will show you the safest walking paths and know the best spots for a picture. Sturdy, slip-resistant walking shoes are needed for steady footing on the stone. Visitors should note that the public restrooms near the site are pretty basic and lack premium western amenities.
Pha Taem National Park – historic cliffs and rock paintings
Pha Taem National Park is known for its high sandstone cliffs and prehistoric rock paintings dating back over three thousand years. A big cliff offers an impressive viewpoint over the Mekong River and the forests of neighbouring Laos. Making it a peaceful destination for those who love to quietly explore.
The park infrastructure features a modern, clean visitor centre equipped with air conditioning and informative displays detailing the archaeological importance of the region. However, the historic cliffside trail that leads down to the actual prehistoric paintings stretches for over four kilometres along a steep, sun-exposed path. If you want to avoid the full loop, a short fifteen-minute walk from the trailhead takes you directly to the main paintings. Reaching them involves walking down some stairs and taking the same steps back up.
Vehicular access is very straightforward with a large, well-marked asphalt parking lot located directly beside the visitor centre. The on-site restrooms are kept clean and feature traditional western-style facilities. A small café near the entrance serves refreshing iced drinks and snacks, providing a comfortable spot to rest in the shade before continuing your journey. It’s best to visit the park during week days to avoid regional tour groups.
Sao Chaliang – ancient earth pillars
Sao Chaliang is a cluster of unique earth pillars and mushroom-shaped rock formations located just a short drive from the national park. These historic monuments were formed by millions of years of wind and water erosion. The compact size of the site makes it an ideal, time-efficient addition to a morning drive through the Khong Chiam district.
The rockformations are next to the parking space which allows you to view the giant stone mushrooms directly from your car. For those who wish to step outside, the walking distance to the base of the primary formations is minimal. The immediate ground cover consists of flat, natural sand, though transitioning into the formations involves stepping onto unpaved, natural rock surfaces that require steady footing.
There are no formal ticketing booths or dedicated restrooms located specifically at this roadside monument because it is managed as a free-access extension of the park. Visitors should therefore utilise the premium services at the nearby national park headquarters before stopping to enjoy the views. The site is generally quiet and free from large crowds, allowing for a unhurried appreciation of the unique Isan landscape.
The serene river and water route – riverside culture and temples
The southeastern corner of the province introduces a completely different rhythm centered around the peaceful waterways of Khong Chiam. This sub-region is characterized by quiet riverside lifestyles and peaceful retreats embracing the natural shape of the hills. The surroundings invite you to enjoy a slow life combined with traditional relaxation.
Wat Tham Khuha Sawan – two-colored river view
Wat Tham Khuha Sawan is a quiet Buddhist monastery on a peaceful hilltop overlooking the famous two coloured river. Visitors are welcomed at the main entrance by a giant gong which is a massive local monument with a diameter of over twenty meters. The temple grounds are designed for a quiet walk featuring green gardens, a white tower and a natural cave housing sacred Buddha images.
The physical layout of the temple allows vehicles to drive near the top pavilion. This significantly reduces the need to climb the long, ceremonial stone staircase. The main cave area is flat and easily accessible via a concrete path, offering a cool, naturally shaded environment for quiet exploration. You should note that the highest observation deck does require climbing several short stairs.
The temple provides a clean, well-maintained environment with ample parking available near the main entrance. Restrooms are accessible and kept to a respectable standard of hygiene, though they follow traditional temple designs and lack luxury fixtures. The atmosphere remains quiet and contemplative throughout the week, though live chanting and traditional bells may echo through the grounds during scheduled morning monastic services.
Sirindhorn Dam and Nature Walkway – hydro-electric reservoir and glass path
Sirindhorn Dam is a large hydro-electric reservoir that has been transformed into a modern leisure destination. Featuring an innovative four-hundred-metre glass walkway overlooking the whole area. This tree-lined property combines environmental engineering with peaceful recreation, allowing guests to stroll high above the reservoir while enjoying views of the distant hills.
The structural design of the Nature Walkway offers completely level, barrier-free access that is fully suitable for wheelchairs. The walkway has safety railings and a non-slip track running alongside the glass panels to provide extra stability. While the walkway itself is outdoors, several shaded pavilions are built into the structure. A premium air-conditioned exhibition hall sits at the entrance for immediate cooling.
Paved parking is provided close to the walkway entrance, which includes dedicated spaces for visitors with limited mobility. The complex includes a modern visitor centre with clean western-style restrooms fully accessible for all guests. A lakeside restaurant serves fresh fish from the reservoir alongside traditional Isaan dishes for a comfortable lunch stop during your trip.
Wat Sirindhorn Wararam – hilltop glowing temple
Wat Sirindhorn Wararam is a hilltop temple famous for the impressive tree of life painted on its rear wall using fluorescent pigments. As darkness falls, the artwork and temple grounds absorb the fading light. Slowly the whole surroundings begin to emit a clear, bright green glow that beautifully captivates everyone present. This serene spiritual property sits high above the landscape, offering a great view to watch the sunset.
The temple structure features a wide, open-air design that relies on natural mountain breezes. Accessing the main hall involves a couple of short, wide stone steps. The surrounding viewing platforms are completely flat and laid with smooth stone. The lighting on the outer pathways is kept low to maximise the visual impact of the glowing elements.
The property features a large parking lot, though arrival before 17:30 is recommended to secure a spot close to the main structure. After dark the fluorescent stone floor begins to glow and we recommend bringing a powerful handheld flashlight to draw temporary patterns directly onto the surface. A standard mobile phone light is usually not strong enough for this activity. Your flashlight will also be very useful to safely navigate the nearby public restrooms which lack bright evening lighting.
Riverside accommodation: comfort and hygiene
Most alternative accommodations in this regional district remain basic for travelers seeking full relaxation. Therefore, choosing a high-quality place along the water allows you to travel in comfort. The quiet riverside areas near Khong Chiam feature a few excellent hotels with high standards. Booking one of these selected resorts guarantees secure private parking and a very restful atmosphere.
Tohsang Heritage Khongjiam – four star riverside resort
The striking blend of Thai, Khmer and Balinese architecture welcomes visitors to a premium experience directly on the banks of the Mekong River. Every spacious guestroom and private villa is designed to maximize views of the water and the distant hills of Laos. This established resort provides a secure, fully self-contained environment that serves as the perfect base for exploring the eastern districts in total comfort.
The resort delivers a high standard of physical comfort, featuring spacious, fully air-conditioned guestrooms. All rooms are equipped with private balconies, plush bedding and modern western bathrooms. Level concrete pathways connect the residential wings to the main lobby, the outdoor swimming pool and the wellness spa. The on-site restaurant features a spacious riverside terrace and a fully air-conditioned dining area to escape from the evening heat.
The resort includes secure private parking with flat access directly to the reception area. The property is generally peaceful and quiet during the day, though the open-air dining terrace can occasionally experience natural insect activity in the evenings. We recommend using a repellent after dark while enjoying the attentive service provided by the staff.
To avoid any confusion with their sister property located inside the city centre: room availability, current rates and reservations for Tohsang Heritage Khongjiam can be safely explored through Klook or via established platforms such as Agoda and Booking.com.
Khong Chiam Orchid Riverside Resort – boutique property
Located along the Mekong River, this four-star boutique resort offers a perfect escape for nature lovers. Featuring a limited number of rooms, this accommodation provides a high level of privacy away from larger crowds. Every unit faces the riverbank to provide an authentic local atmosphere combined with modern standards.
The rooms provide air conditioning, clean wooden furniture and a private terrace to enjoy the morning breeze. Concrete pathways connect the rooms to the main facilities which include a swimming pool overlooking the river. The helpful owners are always happy to assist European guests in English, German or Dutch to ensure a comfortable stay.
The on-site restaurant specializes in local Thai dishes alongside European options including traditional German sausages. This variety makes it very convenient to dine safely within the resort gates after a long day of travel. The property includes a flat private parking lot right beside the main entrance to guarantee easy access. While the atmosphere remains peaceful during the day, you should note that some outdoor pathways have low lighting in the evening hours.
Room availability, current rates and reservations for Khong Chiam Orchid Riverside Resort can be explored directly through Klook or via established platforms such as Agoda and Booking.com.
Continuing your regional Isaan trip
After exploring the best sights in this regional province, it is time to leave Ubon Ratchathani. The historic river areas further north offer excellent opportunities for continued discovery along the water. We advise extending your provincial journey with a relaxed visit to the scenic Mekong region of Nakhon Phanom.
Ubon Ratchathani province: travel questions
Where can I book the riverside resorts in Khong Chiam?
You can easily check the current room rates and book your stay through Klook. If your preferred room option is not available, established platforms like Agoda and Booking.com are reliable alternatives to complete your hotel reservation.
Is Sam Phan Bok suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
No, walking inside the dry riverbed involves navigating very uneven sandstone surfaces and steep ledges. If you have difficulties walking, it is better to avoid the canyon floor and enjoy the views from the shaded pavilions near the main entrance instead.
When is the best time to visit the glowing temple?
It is best to arrive at the hilltop temple just before sunset to enjoy the beautiful views over the valley first. After dark, you can use a handheld flashlight to draw temporary glowing designs on the special stones covering the courtyard floor.
Can I easily visit Pha Taem National Park by car?
Yes, driving to the park is very straightforward because a large asphalt parking lot sits directly next to the visitor center. However, if you want to see the prehistoric rock paintings, you have to walk down a steep path. A short fifteen-minute walk takes you directly to the main sights.